Toyota has demonstrated its commitment to a diverse range of powertrain technologies, from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles all the way to advanced fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).
BATTERY electric vehicles (BEVs) have dominated the spotlight as the next great leap forward to revolutionise the automotive industry, with zero-emission transportation and as a promising avenue towards sustainable mobility.
However, remaining challenges such as relatively higher prices for BEVs compared with conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), as well as Malaysia's EV charging infrastructure, which currently stands at 22.88% in terms of overall development based on the Malaysia Electric Vehicle Charging Network (MEVnet) dashboard, and concerns about travel range, have highlighted the long road ahead for widespread BEV adoption.
Recognising these challenges, Toyota pioneers a multi-pathway approach encompassing diverse solutions beyond BEVs alone.
At the core of Toyota's sustainability strategy lies a commitment to reducing carbon emissions through a holistic approach.
By integrating electrification, diversification, and intelligence, Toyota aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions while ensuring mobility remains accessible and efficient for all.
Toyota's commitment to diversity in powertrains is evident in its comprehensive range of options, from traditional ICE vehicles to cutting-edge fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV).
This approach ensures that customers across different markets can find solutions tailored to their needs and preferences.
In regions like Asia, where energy sources and infrastructure vary widely, Toyota's intricate approach to electrification ensures accessibility through various technologies and business models.
Whether it's hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), BEVs, or FCEVs, Toyota caters to diverse needs and usage patterns.
Toyota's powertrain technologies also include plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and even ICE cars powered by alternative fuels.
“Carbon is our number one enemy, and BEV technology is only one of the bullets to fight carbon. With our multi-pathway approach, we have not one but five bullets to combat carbon,” said Datuk Ravindran K., president of UMW Toyota Motor.
Meeting national market demands
Toyota's multi-pathway approach aligns with Malaysia's aspirations for a low-carbon future, complementing governmental initiatives like the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR).
By collaborating with governmental bodies, Toyota contributes to Malaysia's vision of becoming a leader in clean energy adoption and sustainable mobility.
Toyota's commitment to diversity extends beyond environmental considerations.
In a country like Malaysia, where infrastructure for BEVs is still developing, hybrid vehicles offer a practical solution.
Unlike BEVs, hybrids do not rely heavily on charging infrastructure, making them a viable option for immediate adoption while Malaysia progresses towards a more comprehensive BEV infrastructure.
Malaysia's energy mix, comprising 70% derived from coal, gas, and oil, presents significant environmental challenges.
However, in line with the government’s HETR targets, there is a clear trajectory towards transitioning to renewable energy sources.
The government aims for more than 70% of Malaysia's energy to be renewable by 2050.
Toyota's approach of implementing the right technology at the right time resonates with this transition, ensuring that sustainable mobility solutions are available to meet evolving energy needs.
Datuk Ravindran K. believes that a multi-pathway approach ensures that sustainability is not just a word but a tangible reality, where sustainable transportation is within reach for all.
Malaysia’s well-to-wheel emission and addressing misconceptions
Despite the allure of BEVs, challenges persist, as highlighted by Malaysia's Well-to-Wheel emission study.
Toyota's diverse pathway approach emerges as a viable solution, offering a range of options to meet evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics.
It's crucial to address misconceptions surrounding BEVs and hybrids.
While BEVs are often touted as the ultimate solution for reducing emissions, their environmental impact extends beyond just driving.
Infrastructure development, battery production, and end-of-life management all contribute to their overall footprint.
On the other hand, hybrids offer a more immediate and practical solution, requiring minimal infrastructure investment while still providing significant emissions reductions.
Many urban drives are short-distance and can be done using just a hybrid vehicle's electric motor, meaning there are no tailpipe emissions.
With two power sources, hybrids can drive purely on electricity at lower speeds and when the engine is idling or starting up. With the engine operating only at higher speeds, overall fuel efficiency is also improved.
With lower petrol consumption comes lower exhaust emissions.
This is why hybrid electrics are some of the most energy-efficient vehicles on the road.
More than 20 million Toyota hybrid electric vehicles have been sold worldwide, in a remarkable testament to their proven reputation for fuel efficiency.
In Malaysia, the 1.8-litre petrol Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid is assembled at UMW Toyota Motor's manufacturing subsidiary Assembly Services Sdn Bhd plant in Bukit Raja, Selangor.
The Corolla Cross hybrid's fuel consumption is rated at 23.3km per litre or 4.3 litres per 100km.
A hybrid differs from a PHEV in that onboard charging happens during normal driving and braking.
On the Corolla Cross hybrid, with enough battery charge and at low speeds, the all-electric range can reach 2km.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Innova Zenix is also offered in Malaysia in a 2.0-litre, 7-seater hybrid model with a 6.5Ahr nickel-metal hydride (Ni-Mh) battery.
The Innova Zenix hybrid also has an EV mode for short distances, and its 5th generation hybrid system offers better fuel efficiency, handling, quietness and responsive acceleration.
Multi-pathway approach ensures sustainability
“Our multi-pathway approach ensures that sustainability is not just a word but a tangible reality. By offering diverse solutions, we pave the way for a greener and more inclusive future, where sustainable transportation is within reach for all,” added Ravindran K.
Toyota's commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere rhetoric, as evidenced by its ESG leadership and innovative approach.
Through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, Toyota drives the automotive industry towards a future where mobility is both efficient and environmentally responsible.
Central to this vision is Toyota's dedication to providing mobility solutions for all, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to sustainable transportation.
By democratising access to eco-friendly mobility options, Toyota empowers individuals and communities to embrace a greener tomorrow.
